Today and the next two days, we are trying to understand a bit better what this verse is talking about. Paul, writing in the Greek has very specific concepts in mind. Today, we are talking about adultery and fornication, which both have the same Greek word: porneia. This word includes all sexual activity outside of marriage.
When using the word porneia in reference to a woman, it means prostitute. The woman has entered into the sin of prostitution by selling herself. This word does not just include professional prostitutes but describes any woman who has committed adultery.
When using the word porneia in reference to a man who has committed adultery, it depicts a man who has had sexual intercourse with a prostitute. The word porneia simply means that he slept with a prostitute. So, in reference to adultery, whenever a man has sexual relations with a woman who is not his wife, God says his action is equivalent to seeking a prostitute for a cheap and dirty thrill.
Pornography comes from the same Greek word. In fact pornos (the same greek word for porneia) and grapho which means to write. Thus pornography refers to the writings or reflections about prostitution (adultery). This means that when an individual meditates on the writings or the photography contained in pornography, it is the equivalent of committing mental prostitution. Mental prostitution sheds light on what Jesus said, "Whoever looks on a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
So, now you know the actual meaning of the Greek word adultery that is used throughout the New Testament.
So how does this affect your view of someone who committed adultery?
How does this affect your view of pornography?
How does this affect your view of your own sexual sin?
This study is taken from Sparkling Gems from the Greek.
BE HOLY.
BE A MAN.